A combined computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and network
analysis is proposed as an approach to solve complex flow and heat transfer
problems. Perforated cylindrical passages with impingement and film cooling
arrangement in a circular cylinder are considered as an example for
demonstrating the methodology and simulated a cooled turbine blade geometry.
Two networks namely, flow and thermal networks are developed. CFD calculations
are performed to estimate loss factors and thermal resistances, which are used
as input to the flow and thermal networks. Iterative procedures are adopted for
solving the networks. Results of the pressure and temperature at different
nodes, flow rates through the elements and film hole effectiveness in the
span-wise and peripheral directions are presented at selected positions for
different pressure inlet conditions of coolant. The results indicate that 0.15%
increase in coolant to mainstream flow ratio causes 20% reduction in coolant
outlet temperature and 25% increment in film cooling effectiveness.